By Eileen Buckley
7/9/04 – A University at Buffalo art professor pleaded not guilty to federal mail and fraud charges during his arraignment yesterday.
Steven Kurtz and a University of Pittsburgh professor are accused of illegally obtaining two-biological materials.
As part of his bail release, Assistant U-S Attorney William Hochul wanted Kurtz to notify federal authorities and the University's bio-safety officer if he attempts to purchase more materials. But the judge said that would infringe on Kurtz's first amendment rights. His attorney, Paul Cambria, says instead the Judge will allow Kurtz to report to the court.
"The judge is only requiring, and actually my client volunteered to notify pre-trial services or the court if he intends to do that. But the government should not be looking over my client's shoulder. if they think he is doing something improper they know what to do," said Cambrai.
University at Pittsburgh professor Robert Ferrell did not appear in court for arraignment due to an undisclosed illness. Kurtz will be back in Court July 28th.